Europe Victory Commemorations Underway in Toronto, Ottawa: Public Events Honoring the End of World War II in these Cities.
In May 2025, Canadians are gearing up to celebrate the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe (VE) Day with a series of events nationwide. Here's a breakdown of the key commemorations:
Canuck Commemorations
Ottawa's National War Memorial Bash
On May 8, 2025, at high noon, a grand ceremony will unfold at Ottawa's National War Memorial. General Jennie Carignan, the mighty Chief of the Defence Staff, and Her Excellency Margriet Vonno, His Royal Majesty's Dutch Ambassador to the Great White North, will be there, standing shoulder to shoulder with us, honoring our fallen heroes.
Toronto's Liberation Fests
Toronto's got a few aces up its sleeve. On May 6, 2025, join the sun-soaked crowd at the Sunnybrook Veterans Centre Memorial. For those eager beavers who can't wait, there'll also be wreath-laying ceremonies happening at Queen's Park and Coronation Park on VE Day itself.
Barrie and Chilliwack's Salutes
Up in Barrie, the "Hero's Hometown" is throwing a VE-Day Parade & Ceremony on May 8. Meanwhile, Chilliwack's celebrating in its unique style on the same day.
Winnipeg's Veterans' Reception
Folks in Winnipeg are inviting veterans for a hearty reception on VE Day. Come down, have a chat, show some love—these heroes deserve it!
Signature Events in Toronto
Toronto's put a Signature event together to mark the Netherlands' liberation and VE Day. Details are scarce, but if past years are anything to go by, expect a spectacular show!
Ottawa's Tulip and Air Force Symphony
The Canadian Tulip Festival kicks off in Ottawa, complete with a military vehicle parade as part of its opening ceremony. And if you're still feeling the rhythm, catch The Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra perform a musical tribute in both Montreal and Ottawa.
Dutch Delights
Although these events are happening overseas, it's essential to acknowledge Canada's ties with the Netherlands during this period:
Canada House Pavilion at Oranjepark, Apeldoorn
From May 2 to 5, visitors can drop by the Canada House Pavilion in Oranjepark, Apeldoorn, to learn about our military service during those tumultuous times.
Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Groesbeek
On May 2, 2025, remember fallen Canadian heroes at the heart-wrenching ceremony held at the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery, Groesbeek.
Apeldoorn Liberation Parade, Apeldoorn
Wave the flag for Canada on May 3, 2025, as we march shoulder to shoulder with our allies in the Apeldoorn Liberation Parade.
These events serve as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II, inspiring us to embrace unity and remember the incredible efforts of our veterans and fellow Allied forces. So, strap on your boots, march on, and join the nation-wide celebration of VE Day 2025! 🇨🇦🥳🥳💪💪💪💃🕺🏼
- In the general news, files related to the upcoming 2025 memorial events for the 80th anniversary of VE Day, including sports and cultural events across Canada, are being prepared.
- As part of the Canadian Tulip Festival in Ottawa, there will be a grand ceremony on May 8, 2025, featuring a military vehicle parade and the Royal Netherlands Air Force Orchestra's musical tribute.
- Among the Dutch Delights, Canadians are invited to commemorate the September 1944 liberation of the Netherlands in Apeldoorn, attending events such as the Canada House Pavilion, the Groesbeek Canadian War Cemetery ceremony, and the Apeldoorn Liberation Parade.
